MsC will have Panels presented by a diverse group of national, international, regional and local presenters.
Below is a partial list of the approved panels. More will be posted as we receive and approve them.
(click titles to open for presenter bios and full class descriptions)
BIPOC Forum: Addressing Racial, Cultural, and Ethnic Intersect to Become a Stronger M/s Community-
For the past few years, MsC has opened up a forum so that those who are People of the Global Majority (BIPOC) can openly and honestly discuss the issues that affect them in the greater M/s communities with those who are not BIPOC and have pointedly extended an invitation to do so. However, there has been a shift in this country that most definitely affects marginalized people, especially the various groups under the BIPOC umbrella. Recent events have revealed a schism that begs to be addressed. This year, the forum is for those who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Asian, Middle Eastern, Hawaiian Native, Pasifika, South Asian, mixed heritage, etc.) to have a safe space to honestly and respectfully discuss some of the issues that continue to divide us in a spirit of community and kinship, in order to advance in unity to face the challenges ahead both in and out of the M/s communities.
Cultures & Core Values: How Our Cultural History Impacts Our M/s Relationships-
We are all raised in different ways with different rituals, roles, responsibilities. How we relate is codified into our genes and our ancestry. Our values are shaped by those we follow. This shapes how we relate, communicate and show up in relationships and what we need in a positive affirming relationship. Come join our panel as we explore how cultural differences affect our dynamics and how different folks have used these differences to enrich their dynamics.
When we talk about experiences of trauma and PTSD in the Master/slave demographic, we tend to assume that it’s the slaves with the problem, and the master’s job is to help them deal with their issues. But many of us masters have histories of trauma and PTSD as well, and the prevailing culture in this demographic often discourages us from talking about that. We’re supposed to pretend that we are always strong as a rock, and never flinch or get triggered. How do we learn to master around our scars, creating a framework where our trusted slaves can support us? Let’s talk about how to be the one in charge while engaging in this ongoing struggle. This panel is for M-types only; you get to self-identify.
Moderator: slave Kitty
These tropes have been repeated all too often and sometimes makes those who are single in the lifestyle feel ill at ease or even pressured to acquire a relationship. What does one do when one is desirous of a relationship, but may have difficulty going about it? How do we feel confident being unattached while seeking to find the right connection for a relationship dynamic? What must we do to prepare ourselves for the relationship that we desire? How do we on either side of the slash attract the attention of those with whom we can find compatibility, not just as Masters and slaves, but as people? In the interim, how do we go about finding happiness as people who are unattached in a community often focused on relationship dynamics? This panel discussion explores the various aspects of being single in this lifestyle and how we can find ways to create successful partnerships, and find happiness outside of being in a dynamic.
Moderator: Joanne Wadsworth
These are actual statements overheard by male "Masters" when referring to women in Mastery. There has long been an erroneous assumption rooted in patriarchy and misogyny that women should not be legitimately considered to be Masters ;despite a long history proving otherwise. These tropes can be magnified if there are two female identifying people in a relationship dynamic. In a society that is permeated with patriarchal attitudes and condescension and resistance to the very idea of women in positions of authority, it is disappointing to have to deal with the same attitudes and prejudices in what is supposed to be an "alternative lifestyle", i.e., not like the mainstream. This discussion will be a safe space in which to gather, discuss, and share experiences and strategies. All female-identifying individuals who are Masters, Dominants, or switches, and those who are interested or support them, are welcome.
As the conference draws to a close, there have been volumes of information taken in and being digested. As you ponder all of the insights and experiences that were shared this weekend, there may have been some questions that have arisen. Rather than take those questions home with you, why not take the opportunity to share them here? With a panel of experienced Masters, you can find a friendly, safe environment in which to ask those questions and get answers for different perspectives. Feel free to ask any questions you may have.
As the conference is reaching its culmination it is common to reflect on the subjects discussed, the conversations had, the people met, and the perspectives shared. In the midst of this there may have been some points you may not be sure you understood, or some questions that may have come to mind. How do you get the answers to these questions? Here is a resource available to those who identify as slaves or on the right side of the slash that can find answers to those questions while here in a safe environment. Those experienced in living as slaves will be available as a sounding board for you to ask those questions and to receive answers in a thoughtful, non-judgmental way. Any questions you may have are welcome here.
Until recently, the idea of being M/s and being a switch was something that puzzled some people and caused others to roll their eyes in derision. The very idea of being a switch in M/s was frowned upon by many. But, we evolve and many have been speaking out about being switches in M/s and as a result, more people are feeling comfortable about it. In this discussion we will explore the idea of being comfortable as a switch and discuss, not only surviving, but thriving as a switch in a community that has often had binary thinking about the idea. All who identify as switches are welcome to attend, network, and share their experiences.
When people view polyamorous relationships there are often ill-conceived thoughts that come into mind, often based upon the societal norms that many of us have grown up with. They are just greedy. It's just another way to cheat. I don't know how they could pull that off. How do they deal with jealousy? All sorts of questions are asked about consensual polyamorous relationships, including, How is it possible to love more than one person? This discussion not only answers those questions and confronts misconceptions, but will show how successful polyamory can be achieved by the people who live it every day. They will discuss methods and practices, obstacles overcome, and the various ways they have been able to find and keep happiness in their polyamory. If you are interested, or just curious, feel free to attend.
In this panel we will explore the unique ways individuals express trust and vulnerability in M/s relationships. Influenced by cultural & personal factors, submission and surrender are a profoundly personal journey. Recognizing these diverse expressions fosters deeper connections, cultivates empathy between partners, strengthens dynamic foundations, and enhances intimacy and understanding. Let's discuss, ask questions, and take notes!
There are so many different types of relationship types that fall under the broad umbrella of "alternative relationships". With the plethora of choices and styles, some of which seem to still be evolving, those who choose the M/s dynamic may be asked, "Why M/s?" If you've ever wanted to ask this question, or have been asked, here is an opportunity to hear different perspectives. Join our panelists for this interesting discussion.
Long term relationships in M/s can often be attributed to finding a unicorn, in that successful ones are indeed a rare find. There are many factors that make up these types of relationships, the most important of which is the idea that there isn’t one way to make it work. Dedication, patience, and the drive to travel this journey together, are just some of the factors. Join the panelists as they answer your questions about their relationships and how they’ve maintained their dynamic over the years, weathering both the good times and struggles along the way.
